Francesco Molinari has struggled mightily after coming up short in more ways than one at the Masters Tournament back in April 2019. The Italian needs a change, and that's coming in the form of a new caddie.
Molinari, the 2018 British Open Championship winner, announced on Twitter he has split with long-time caddie Pello Iguaran.
In a statement on social media, Molinari detailed the end of their four-season relationship:
“It’s been nearly 4 seasons of incredible emotions and really productive work, but unfortunately relationships sometimes come to an end, even if it’s not what we wish for. Pello will always be a member of my team and more importantly my family. He’s one of the most hardworking, loyal, positive, reflective people I’ve come across during my career.
We’ve had both good and tough times on the course, but most importantly we both grew together and as individuals during our time together. Best of luck for the future and thanks for an amazing run together."
The 36-year-old enjoyed a career year in 2018, including winning the claret jug, the BMW PGA Championship, the final Quicken Loans National, the 2019 Arnold Palmer Invitational and becoming the first European player to go 5-0-0 in a single Ryder Cup. However, since his second-nine falter at the Masters, Molinari hasn't finished in the top 10 in any start.
Molinari has hired Jason Hempleman to be on the bag until the end of his season.
Mark Fulcher, who caddies for Justin Rose for more than a decade, will take over Molinari's bag at the start of 2020. Fulcher and Rose split in May after Fulcher came back on the bag following heart surgery. Rose said Fulcher needed to take an indefinite leave from the profession to get his health right, and Fulcher now appears ready to take on the rigors again of a world-class player.
